Veteran spin-bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin in an official statement has said that he won't be doing any discussions around the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) games during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Ashwin said that the decision was taken after the 'nature of discussions' on CSK games of late. In an episode, one of the panelists had criticised CSK team management for giving preference Afghanistan left-arm chinaman bowler Noor Ahmad over Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin.
"Given the nature of the discussions on this forum over the last week, we want to be mindful of how things can be interpreted and have chosen to step away from covering CSK games, both previews and reviews, for the rest of this season," Ashwin wrote in a post on his YouTube channel.
The 38-year-old distanced himself from opinions of the panellists as well and ensured that show will maintain its intergrity.
"We value the diversity of perspectives that come through on our shows and remain committed to ensuring the conversation stays true to the integrity and purpose of the platform we’ve established. The views expressed by our guests do not reflect Ashwin’s personal opinions," Ashwin said.
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Non-CSK matches' analysis to continue
However, Ashwin confirmed that he will continue to talk about matches of other franchises during the IPL 2025.
"We appreciate all those who engage thoughtfully with the spirit of the show. Your feedback continues to help us refine and improve what we've built over the years. The Small Council will continue with all non-CSK games as usual.
"Looking forward to witnessing the rest of this exciting IPL season with all of you," he added.
What Fleming said on Ashwin's YouTube channel
Earlier, head coach Stephen Fleming was asked in the post-match press conference on April 5 whether he knows about the discussions on Ashwin's YouTube show.
“Mate, I have no idea. I don’t even know he had a channel, so I don’t follow that stuff. That’s irrelevant. You guys are important," Fleming replied.
CSK's next match
CSK have lost three out of their four games. They will face Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 8.